How to Get Rid of a Wet Dog Smell

Dogs love water. They like to run through puddles, swim in ponds, and sometimes roll around in kiddie pools in the summertime. As many pet owners know, wet dogs tend to emit a musty, dirty odor. Whether your dog has been swimming or simply running around in the rain, acting quickly will help to avoid odors and get rid of a wet dog smell.

Things You'll Need

  • Towel
  • Blow-dryer
  • Grooming spray or powder
  • Dog shampoo
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Instructions

    • 1

      Towel dry your dog as soon as possible after it gets wet. Use a large towel, and rub briskly to remove as much water as possible.

    • 2

      Blow-dry your dog's coat to take care of any remaining moisture. While a towel can remove a lot of water from the dog's coat, some moisture is likely to remain close to the skin. Be sure that the blow-dryer is not too hot.

    • 3

      Use grooming spray to help keep your pet smelling clean. Also try grooming powders or dry shampoos. These will not clean as well as a full bath, but will help to keep odor at bay.

    • 4

      Bathe your dog if the odor persists. Use a shampoo formulated for dogs, as shampoo for people can aggravate your dog's skin. Be sure to rinse your dog well, and dry its coat thoroughly to avoid the wet dog smell.

    • 5

      See your veterinarian if your dog still has an odor problem. There are certain health conditions that can cause a bad-smelling coat, and your dog may need oral or topical medication.